Sophie Cunningham knew the emotions would come eventually, but not quite like this. “I think I cried a little,” she said, reflecting on the news of her next chapter. After years of giving it her all in Phoenix, the 28-year-old sharpshooter set her sights on something new: a fresh start with the Indiana Fever.

The move came as part of a three-way blockbuster deal that sent NaLyssa Smith and the No. 8 pick to Dallas. For Cunningham, this wasn’t just another transaction.“I’m stoked. I’m so so excited. I think it’s refreshing,” she said. This new opportunity isn’t just about a change of scenery—it’s about leveling up her game, finding new chemistry, and carving out an even bigger role in the league. So, as she treads ahead, what has the Fever star’s earnings and financial hourney been like?

Did Sophie Cunningham have NIL deals?

No, when Sophie Cunningham was at the University of Missouri, the NIL was still in its initial legal steps. Namely, in 2019, the year she graduated. It would take two more years before the NCAA would change its rules to allow students to profit from their name, image, and likeness.

Had the ban been lifted when Cunningham was in college, it is very likely she would have benefited largely, given her stats. The guard finished her career as Mizzou’s all-time leading scorer (2,187 points) and all-time leader in free throws made (537). She also boasts a social media following of 277k. But nonetheless, Cunningham graduated with her heart full.

“Truly honored and full of gratitude and love for @Mizzou! We had a hell of a team and A TIME WAS HAD during those years, but nothing beats the memories and relationships those four years gave. We had COMO popping, and all I can do now is smile,” she had shared. While the deals did not come her way then, they sure did when she turned pro.

What are Sophie Cunningham’s NIL deals as of 2025?

Back when she was with the Phoenix Mercury, Cunningham showed off her fashion side in a big way, walking into the arena for a game against the Los Angeles Sparks wearing an all-black ensemble—black dress, black bag, black heels—and a whole lot of attitude. She even posted it to Instagram with a cheeky caption: “Don’t try me.” Cunningham’s off-court confidence has helped her grow her brand in ways that go far beyond basketball.

So when it comes to collaborations, she’s wide open. No plans for her own fashion line just yet—“I think that would be a hot mess knowing me,” she joked—but she’s all about teaming up with brands that match her vibe. “When it comes to collabs, I would literally collab with anyone if it fits my style and my morals,” she said. “So, why not?”

So far, she’s partnered with Quest Nutrition to promote their protein-packed chocolate cookies. In a playful post, she wrote, “I’m cheating on my kitchen with Quest Nutrition. No need to bake anymore when I can have these protein-packed cookies.” Cunningham also teamed up with Mad Hippie. It’s a beauty and personal care brand known for promoting real, inner beauty, fitting perfectly with Cunningham’s down-to-earth image. 

And of course, no brand connection might be bigger for an athlete than her sneaker game. Sophie proudly rocks Adidas, listing herself as an “adidas athlete” right in her Instagram bio. According to Kixstats, Cunningham wore Adidas shoes in 97.2% of her games last season. Apart from that, she has also represented SKIMS and has had the opportunity to be an analyst for Phoenix Suns’ Suns Live. 

“I don’t go overseas, I make it up in marketing money through endorsements,” she admits. So, just how much is Cunningham known to make? On and off the court?

What is Sophie Cunningham’s net worth and salary? 

When it comes to building her career both on and off the court, Sophie Cunningham has been smart about her moves. Most of her wealth comes from her WNBA contracts and a growing list of side gigs that keep her busy beyond basketball. As of 2024, her net worth was estimated to be around $1.5 million.

Cunningham’s marketability as a professional athlete has opened several doors. In 2025, according to Spotrac, she signed a one-year, $100,000 extension with the Phoenix Mercury before making her way to Indiana. That deal earned her a base salary of $100,000, matching her cap hit. Before that, her salary for the 2024 season was estimated to be around $120,000.

As aforementioned, Sophie builds her earnings through more than just her play on the court. While details about her exact income from endorsements remain private, it’s clear Cunningham’s brand is expanding fast.